Babies love being close, and they also love exploring when you go out and about. This can sometimes present a challenge if you need both hands free as you do your daily activities. Baby carriers offer the perfect solution, as well as many other benefits for you and your baby.
Here are some safety tips for wearing a baby carrier to ensure that your little one enjoys a comfortable and safe journey while your hands are free to do whatever you need to get done!
Before You Walk About
Not all baby carriers are created equal, and it makes sense to do your research before buying one. This helps you find the best option for you and your baby based on their age, height, and weight.
Once you have chosen a baby carrier, you need to familiarize yourself with how to safely use it before going out and about. Carefully read the instructions and safety guidelines; there may even be some videos you can watch about the safe usage of the baby carrier.
Before the first trip out, some parents like to practice using the carrier without their baby in it. Learning how to put it on, take it off, and buckle/unbuckle it yourself will save any frustrations once your baby is inside.
Initially, practice wearing the carrier with a soft toy or doll inside it, and once you feel more confident, you can start practicing with your baby around the house, beginning on the floor.
Ready? Then it’s time for you and your baby to go exploring!
Use the TICKS guidelines
Whether you are feeling good to go or still feeling nervous about using a baby carrier, here is a guideline that provides clear safety tips for wearing a baby carrier time after time. It is called TICKS, and you can use it as a checklist whenever you put the carrier on.
Here’s how you use it.
T = Tight Carrier, No Loose Fabric
Your baby carrier needs to be tight enough to hug your baby close to you, which makes it more comfortable for both of you and stops your baby from slumping down in the carrier, potentially hindering their breathing,
I = In View at All Times
When you glance down, you should have your baby’s cute face looking back at you without the need to move any fabric covering their face.
C = Close Enough to Kiss
While you are looking down, why not kiss your little one on their head or forehead? If you can’t do that by simply moving your chin forward, they are probably down too low. Adjust the carrier so they are as close to your chin as possible and as comfortable as possible.
K = Keep Chin off Chest
Whether using a “forward facing” or a “you facing” baby carrier, you must ensure that your baby is correctly positioned. Keeping their chin off their chest will ensure that their airway remains open when sleeping or slumping forward. Aim to keep a two-finger width between their chin and chest while they are in the carrier.
S = Supported Back
Ensure that the carrier correctly supports your baby’s back as their tummy and chest rest against you. If the carrier is too loose, the baby can slump or curl, affecting their breathing.
Follow these steps every time you wear the carrier, and you’ll soon get used to it as you and your baby enjoy many adventures around your local area.
If you have any questions about safely wearing a baby carrier or transporting your baby around in your car, book an appointment today to speak with one of our board-certified pediatricians.